London is a bustling capital that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity and welcomes a diverse array of travellers throughout the year. From families seeking a memorable holidays to business professionals attending crucial meetings and events, and couples looking to embrace the city’s romantic charm – London has something to offer every type of explorer.
However, planning a trip to London can feel daunting! It’s a huge city with so much to see and do. How do you plan your trip so that you make the most of your stay?
As you prepare to embark on your London adventure, this guide will lead you through creating a comprehensive trip planner that caters to your unique preferences and needs.
The different types of travellers who visit London
London’s magnetism knows no bounds, attracting a myriad of travellers with distinct interests and motivations.
Families delight in exploring iconic attractions such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the enchanting Harry Potter Studios. Whether you’re travelling with young children who will delight in a summertime trip to the Peter Pan themed playground in Kensington Gardens or teens who will love trawling Camden Market before taking in a West End show, there’s something for everyone.
Business travellers find themselves amidst the global financial hub, attending meetings in sleek corporate offices and headquarters. Many corporate and industry events are held in London, especially in the Docklands area.
Couples, on the other hand, immerse themselves in romantic strolls along the Thames, intimate theatre experiences, and candlelit dinners at some of the best foodie places.
Your London plan should account for your unique needs.
How do I make a London itinerary?
Crafting a well-rounded London itinerary begins with defining your priorities.
Jot down the attractions, activities, and experiences you simply can’t miss. Or for business travellers, jot down your key meetings and events and plan around this.
Consider allocating specific days to explore different areas of London. London is huge, roughly 20 miles across! For example, you don’t want to plan to visit the world-renowned Greenwich and Windsor Castle in the same day!
While spontaneity is great, you will need to put some key things into your itinerary in advance. Popular sites and attractions are best booked in advance to ensure you get a spot and also avoid queues. There are many ‘must-dos’ when it comes to London, but consider what you and your party really like to do as you’ll never manage to do it all in one trip. And don’t forget to plan some off-the-beaten-path gems to truly capture London’s essence.
How should I travel around London?
As said, London is enormous.
However, navigating London’s extensive public transportation network is a breeze. The Underground, known as the Tube, efficiently connects every corner of the city. Many travellers comment that it’s surprisingly easy to understand.
Buses, trams, and riverboats further enhance your options. Oyster cards or contactless payment methods are your passport to easy travel. There are also the iconic black cabs, but these can be expensive. Lastly, there are Santander cycles for hire all over the city.
What is the best travel planner for London?
An array of helpful apps can transform your London experience.
Transport for London’s official app, TfL Go, provides real-time information on public transportation, helping you navigate effortlessly. Citymapper offers step-by-step directions and suggestions based on your preferences. For sightseeing, Time Out London keeps you updated on events, dining, and cultural happenings. The Visit London app is the official guide to the city.
Where should I stay in London?
When choosing accommodation, serviced apartments emerge as a shining star. This is how you experience London like a local while relishing the comforts of home.
Serviced apartments combine the best of both worlds – spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and the convenience of hotel services. Enjoy the freedom to unwind in a private space, perfect for families, business travellers, or couples seeking a personalised retreat.
Furthermore, you’ll find serviced apartments all across London, so you can choose to stay exactly where you want to be.
How do I budget for my trip to London?
Working a budget for your London trip is an important step.
Start by estimating expenses for flights, accommodation, transportation, and daily meals. Research admission fees for attractions and activities, allowing for occasional indulgences.
However, don’t forget to factor in shopping, souvenirs, and unexpected expenses.
London offers a spectrum of experiences for various budgets, from high-end Michelin-starred dining to affordable street food, or world-class free museums to expensive attractions.
You’re now ready to plan your London adventure!
As you embark on your London journey, meticulous planning ensures a seamless and memorable experience. Every London itinerary should be unique to suit the individual traveller’s agendas and budgets, and with a city as diverse as London, that’s easy to do. Whether you’re gazing at the stunning architecture of St. Paul’s Cathedral, relishing the vibrant energy of Covent Garden, or attending a global event at the O2 arena, London promises a fabulous experience.
At London Serviced Apartments, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of well-appointed serviced apartments in prime London locations. Enjoy the luxury of space, convenience, and the feeling of home away from home. Browse the site or call us on +44 (0) 208 004 0007.